Tag Archives: Aviation

Titan Aviation Leasing, Bain Capital and Atlas Air Worldwide Launch Second Freighter Aircraft Investment Platform with $410 Million Capital Commitment

BainCapital

Expanded Platform Builds on Success of Titan Aircraft Investments I to Strengthen Global Freighter Leasing Portfolio

DUBLIN – September 2, 2025 –Titan Aviation Leasing, a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide [“Atlas”], and Bain Capital today announced the successful closing of Titan Aircraft Investments II, DAC (“TAI 2”), a new freighter aircraft investment platform. TAI 2 launches with a $410 million capital commitment from Bain Capital and Atlas that further scales the firms’ joint venture platform that is focused on delivering flexible and efficient freighter leasing solutions worldwide.

Building on the strong performance of Titan Aircraft Investments I, Ltd. (“TAI 1”), which was established in 2019 and launched with $400 million in initial capital commitments, TAI 2 represents a milestone expansion of the freighter leasing platform to meet sustained global demand for dedicated cargo aircraft.

TAI 1 targeted long-term deployment of $1 billion in assets. Since TAI 1’s inception, Titan Aviation Leasing has acquired 19 aircraft across 11 lessees worldwide, capitalizing on secular demand for cargo aircraft driven by robust e-commerce growth.

Titan Aviation Leasing will continue to provide comprehensive aircraft and lease management services across both portfolios, leveraging its deep cargo aviation expertise to support a growing and diversified customer base.

“The successful deployment of TAI 1 has demonstrated the strength of our partnership with Bain Capital and Atlas, and the critical role Titan plays in delivering efficient, flexible freighter leasing solutions,” said Eamonn Forbes, Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Titan Aviation Leasing. “We are excited to scale this platform further with TAI 2 and continue supporting the evolving needs of the global air cargo industry.”

“This expanded platform underscores our commitment to the freighter leasing sector and to building long-term solutions for our customers,” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide.

“We are proud to deepen our partnership with Titan and Atlas as we expand our platform to meet the increasingly complex demands of global cargo supply chains,” said Matthew Evans, a Partner at Bain Capital. “By leveraging our combined expertise with the ability to act quickly and efficiently in a continually evolving market, we are well positioned to continue delivering flexible, high-impact solutions that help freight operators around the world meet their diverse financing needs.”

About Titan Aviation Leasing:
Titan Aviation Leasing is a freighter-centric leasing company that provides dry leasing solutions to airlines worldwide. Titan Aviation Leasing’s fleet of cargo aircraft supports customers, including international flag carriers, express operators, e-commerce providers, and regional and domestic carriers. Titan Aviation Leasing’s deep airfreight domain expertise and innovative asset management solutions help customers quickly ramp up their aviation operations while minimizing capital investment.

Titan Aviation Leasing provides management services to the joint venture, including aircraft acquisitions, lease management, passenger-to-freighter aircraft conversion oversight, technical expertise, and disposal of aircraft.

About Atlas Air Worldwide:
Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777 and 767 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.

Media Contacts

 For Bain Capital Double Impact:

 Edward de Sciora

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Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo and Brookfield to Acquire Air Lease Corporation in 100% Cash Transaction

Apollo logo

 

Leading investors with a long-term strategic focus deliver transformational transaction for the aircraft leasing sector 

  • Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo and Brookfield have reached a definitive agreement to acquire Air Lease Corporation through a newly established entity, Sumisho Air Lease Corporation (Ireland) DAC
  • Air Lease will be renamed Sumisho Air Lease Corporation (“Sumisho Air Lease”) and its orderbook is expected to transfer to SMBC Aviation Capital as part of the transaction; SMBC Aviation Capital will act as a servicer to Sumisho Air Lease’s portfolio
  • Apollo and Brookfield to provide capital to support the acquisition, joining Sumitomo Corporation and SMBC Aviation Capital as aligned investors
  • Sumisho Air Lease will be optimally positioned to capitalise on airline and investor demand in a supply constrained environment
  • Sumisho Air Lease is expected to be an investment-grade rated aircraft lessor with a globally diverse group of airline customers and portfolio of new technology aircraft

New York, Dublin, Tokyo – September 2, 2025: Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo managed funds (“Apollo”) and Brookfield, today announced that they have reached a definitive agreement to acquire Air Lease Corporation (“Air Lease”), a leading aircraft lessor founded by Steven F. Udvar-Házy and John L. Plueger with a portfolio primarily comprised of new technology aircraft. Upon closing, Air Lease will be renamed Sumisho Air Lease, a newly established entity. Apollo and Brookfield have agreed to provide capital to support the transaction.

Under the terms of the agreement, Air Lease common stockholders will receive $65.00 per share in cash, representing a total valuation of approximately $7.4 billion, or approximately $28.2 billion including debt obligations to be assumed or refinanced net of cash. The cash consideration represents a 7% premium over Air Lease’s all-time high closing stock price on August 28, 2025, a 14% premium over the volume weighted average share price during the 30 trading day period ended August 29, 2025, and a 31% premium over the volume weighted average share price during the last 12 months’ trading day period ended August 29, 2025.

Sumisho Air Lease’s position as an established aircraft lessor and SMBC Aviation Capital’s industry-leading capabilities bring scale and financial strength to address the fast-evolving and increasingly complex needs of airline customers. Sumisho Air Lease will further benefit from the Sumitomo Corporation and SMBC Aviation Capital’s deep expertise in, and long-standing commitments to, the aviation leasing sector.

Takao Kusaka, Group CEO, Transportation & Construction Systems Group of Sumitomo Corporation, said:

“We are honoured to have reached this significant agreement together with SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo and Brookfield.

“Through this transaction, we will achieve greater scale and profitability, positioning the Sumitomo Corporation Group’s aircraft leasing business as one of the largest globally in terms of owned and managed aircraft through Sumisho Air Lease’s highly attractive portfolio centered on new tech aircraft.

“This will further strengthen our industry standing and enhance our competitive advantage. Sumisho Air Lease will be a core part of the Sumitomo Corporation Group’s wider investments in the aviation sphere. Sumisho Air Lease’s inclusion within the shareholder eco-system provides an opportunity to create powerful new synergy.”

Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital, said:

“This transaction is transformational for our business and the leasing landscape. Investing in Sumisho Air Lease, purchasing their orderbook and becoming servicer to the substantial majority of Sumisho Air Lease’s portfolio will enable us to deploy our financial scale and strength to meet the evolving needs of our customers and take a strategic lead in reshaping our sector.

“In our sector, economies of scale matter. Our industry is evolving at pace and requires significant and diverse pools of capital so that our airline and investor customers can be provided with the products and services they need.

“As one of the most well-regarded leasing platforms, with a portfolio focused on liquid, in demand, new tech aircraft, Air Lease presents an attractive opportunity for the co-investors.”

Jamshid Ehsani, Partner, Apollo, said:

“Apollo’s partnership with SMBC Aviation Capital and Sumitomo Corporation is a testament to our core principle of delivering tailor made, scaled and innovative capital solutions to corporations. This important industry transaction highlights the flexibility of the Apollo’s long-term insurance capital and our creative approach to high-grade capital solutions. Apollo has a distinguished and established track record in aviation investing, led by our industry experts at Perseus Aviation, and we are pleased to deliver the full strength of the Apollo ecosystem to the success of this transaction.”

Craig Noble, CEO of Brookfield Credit, said:

“We are pleased to partner with SMBC Aviation Capital and Sumitomo Corporation in this landmark transaction, which highlights Brookfield’s ability to provide hybrid solutions in an environment with a growing need for private capital. By combining our credit expertise, industry insight, and large-scale capital with the strengths of our strategic partner manager, Castlelake—a leader in aviation investing—this transaction demonstrates the value of flexibility and scale in today’s market.”

Additional Transaction Details

SMBC, Citi, and Goldman Sachs Bank USA have provided $12.1 billion of committed financing in connection with the transaction.

Sumisho Air Lease is expected to receive investment grade ratings from S&P, Fitch and Kroll.

The Board of Directors of Air Lease has unanimously approved the agreement. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by Air Lease’s common stockholders and receipt of certain regulatory approvals, and is expected to close in the first half of 2026. Air Lease’s directors and certain executive officers have agreed to vote the shares of common stock held by them in favour of the transaction.

Advisors

Citigroup Global Markets Limited and Goldman Sachs International are acting as financial advisors to SMBC Aviation Capital. Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP and McCann Fitzgerald are acting as legal advisors to SMBC Aviation Capital. Goldman Sachs Japan and Citigroup Global Markets Japan are acting as financial advisors to Sumitomo Corporation. Norton Rose Fulbright is acting as legal advisor to Sumitomo Corporation. Milbank LLP is acting as legal advisor to Apollo and Brookfield.

For more information, please contact:

SMBC Aviation Capital

Conor Irwin, SVP Communications (for media)
+353 87 381 6106

Mark Allen, Head of Corporate Finance (for investors)
+353 87 226 3622

FGS Global (for SMBC Aviation Capital) 

SMBCAviation-LON@fgsglobal.com

Richard Webster-Smith
+44 7796 708551

Rory King
+44 7917 086 227

Sumitomo Corporation

Contact Us | Sumitomo Corporation

Apollo

Noah Gunn, Global Head of Investor Relations
+1 (212) 822-0540
IR@apollo.com

Joanna Rose, Global Head of Corporate Communications
+1 (212) 822-0491
Communications@apollo.com

Brookfield

Rachel Wood, Vice President, Communications
+1 (212) 618-3490
Rachel.wood@brookfield.com

About Sumitomo Corporation

Sumitomo Corporation (TYO: 8053) is an integrated trading and business investment company with a strong global network comprising 127 offices in 64 countries and regions. The Sumitomo Corporation Group consists of approximately 500 companies and 80,000 employees on a consolidated basis. The Group’s business activities are spread across the following nine groups: Steel, Automotive, Transportation & Construction Systems, Diverse Urban Development, Media & Digital, Lifestyle Business, Mineral Resources, Chemicals Solutions and Energy Transformation Business. Sumitomo Corporation is committed to creating greater value for society under the corporate message of “Enriching lives and the world,” based on Sumitomo’s business philosophy passed down for over 400 years. Sumitomo Corporation

About SMBC Aviation Capital

SMBC Aviation Capital is a leading aircraft lessor globally by number of aircraft and benefits from the strong support of its shareholders Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group and Sumitomo Corporation. SMBC Aviation Capital has a high-quality global airline customer base with a portfolio comprising 87% narrow-body aircraft and 73% new technology aircraft (by net book value). SMBC Aviation Capital has a strong capital position and holds an A- and BBB+ rating with S&P and Fitch respectively, reflecting the long-term strength of its business. For more information, please visit: https://www.smbc.aero/

About Apollo

Apollo is a high-growth, global alternative asset manager. In our asset management business, we seek to provide our clients excess return at every point along the risk-reward spectrum from investment grade credit to private equity. For more than three decades, our investing expertise across our fully integrated platform has served the financial return needs of our clients and provided businesses with innovative capital solutions for growth. Through Athene, our retirement services business, we specialize in helping clients achieve financial security by providing a suite of retirement savings products and acting as a solutions provider to institutions. Our patient, creative and knowledgeable approach to investing aligns our clients, businesses we invest in, our employees and the communities we impact to expand opportunity and achieve positive outcomes. As of June 30, 2025, Apollo had approximately $840 billion of assets under management. To learn more, please visit www.apollo.com

About Brookfield

Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE: BAM, TSX: BAM) is a leading global alternative asset manager, headquartered in New York, with over $1 trillion of assets under management. Brookfield invests client capital for the long term with a focus on real assets and essential service businesses that form the backbone of the global economy. Brookfield offers a range of alternative investment products to investors around the world — including public and private pension plans, endowments and foundations, sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions, insurance companies and private wealth investors. We draw on Brookfield’s heritage as an owner and operator to invest for value and generate strong returns for our clients, across economic cycles.

Brookfield Credit manages approximately $332 billion of assets globally as of August 6, 2025, focused on a broad range of private credit investment strategies, including infrastructure, renewables, real estate, asset backed, and corporate credit. Return profiles span investment grade, sub-investment grade, and opportunistic. The business combines Brookfield’s substantial direct investment platform which has been developed over several decades, alongside Brookfield’s strategic partners, including Oaktree Capital Management, Castlelake, LCM Partners, 17Capital, and Primary Wave Music. As one of the world’s largest and most experienced credit managers globally, Brookfield Credit delivers flexible, specialized capital solutions to borrowers, and seeks to achieve attractive risk-adjusted returns for our clients. For more information, please visit our website at www.bam.brookfield.com

 

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Platinum Equity to Acquire Anuvu

Platinum

LOS ANGELES, CA (August 18, 2025) – Platinum Equity announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Anuvu, a leading provider of global entertainment and high-speed connectivity solutions for airlines, VIP/VVIP aircraft, cruise lines and other mobility end-markets.

  • Headquartered in Lombard, IL, Anuvu serves more than 150 airline and 30 cruise-line customers worldwide. The company operates two primary divisions:
  • Media Technology Services: Licenses, distributes, localizes and delivers entertainment content for aviation, maritime and non-theatrical end markets, with a catalog of more than 400,000 titles
  • Connectivity: Provides telecommunications equipment, broadband satellite Internet access, passenger management services, and analytics solutions to airline customers.

“Anuvu is a leader in delivering exceptional entertainment experiences to global aviation customers and has developed highly innovative and technologically advanced satellite connectivity and content delivery platforms”

Jacob Kotzubei, Co-President, Platinum Equity

“Anuvu is a leader in delivering exceptional entertainment experiences to global aviation customers and has developed highly innovative and technologically advanced satellite connectivity and content delivery platforms,” said Platinum Equity Co-President Jacob Kotzubei. “As passenger traffic continues to grow, we are encouraged to see carriers making substantial new investments in both connectivity and entertainment, improving passenger and guest experiences. We look forward to working with Anuvu’s leadership team to capitalize on these tailwinds and other opportunities to grow the business.”

Joshua Marks, CEO of Anuvu, who has been with the company for 10 years and helped the business navigate through COVID and a subsequent transformation, will continue in his role following the acquisition.

“We’ve made strong progress in recent years by investing in both technology and content, focusing on our core strengths in the aviation and cruise markets. We recently activated the Anuvu Constellation, providing dedicated aviation satellite capacity over North America. In parallel, we continue to expand our Media partnerships to license, localize and distribute distinctive content to the world’s leading airlines and cruise lines,” said Marks. “We are excited to partner with Platinum Equity to leverage their financial expertise, global capabilities, and operational know-how supporting fast-growing portfolio companies.”

Platinum Equity has deep experience investing in technology and media businesses. Its current portfolio includes Deluxe, a leading provider of end-to-end post-production services for the world’s leading content production studios.

“Anuvu’s long-standing customer relationships, talented employees and global footprint provide a strong platform for organic growth,” said Platinum Equity Managing Director Dan Krasner. “We also see opportunities to leverage Anuvu’s content and technology capabilities to expand further into adjacent markets, including non-theatrical verticals, media processing and delivery, advertising and other custom services.”

Financial terms were not disclosed. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter calendar year 2025, after the receipt of required regulatory approvals.

Drake Star is serving as the exclusive financial advisor to Anuvu.

About Platinum Equity

Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with approximately $50 billion of assets under management and a portfolio of approximately 60 operating companies that serve customers around the world. Platinum Equity specializes in mergers, acquisitions and operations – a trademarked strategy it calls M&A&O® – acquiring and operating companies in a broad range of business markets, including manufacturing, distribution, transportation and logistics, equipment rental, metals services, media and entertainment, technology, telecommunications and other industries. Over the past 30 years Platinum Equity has completed more than 500 acquisitions.

About Anuvu

Anuvu connects and entertains the world’s passengers. Our award-winning content and connectivity solutions are reliable, scalable, and tailored to our customers’ brands and service objectives. With a flexible and agile approach, we maximize the technology available today, while optimizing for tomorrow.

Some of the most experienced professionals in the industry lead our teams and this, together with our long-standing client relationships, means we never stand still.

Anuvu. Let Innovation Move You.

Follow Anuvu on LinkedIn for further updates and insights.

 

Contacts:
Dan Whelan
Platinum Equity
dwhelan@platinumequity.com

Caroline Smith
Anuvu
caroline.smith@anuvu.com

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Ardian increases stake in Heathrow to 32.6%

Ardian

This statement should be read in conjunction with Ferrovial and Ardian’s statements issued on February 26th 2025.

•    Ardian has completed the acquisition of an additional 10% stake in Heathrow Airport allowing Ferrovial, La Caisse (previously CDPQ) and USS to exit their final minority stakes. This acquisition increases Ardian’s stake to 32.6%.
•    Ardian will continue to support Heathrow and its management to deliver sustainable growth and expand the “UK’s Gateway to Growth”. This in turn will support the UK Government’s Plan for Change.
•    Heathrow has shown consistent demand, breaking passenger records for the months of January, April and May so far this year. These results further support the need for a UK hub airport that has the capacity to ensure sustainable trade, business and passenger travel throughout the country and across the world.
•    Acquisition is further evidence of the growing strength and reach of Ardian’s Infrastructure practice as it seeks new investments around the world

Ardian, a world-leading investment firm, today announces that it has completed the acquisition of an additional 10 per cent stake in FGP Topco Ltd (TopCo), the holding company for Heathrow Airport Holdings Ltd, from Ferrovial SE and other TopCo shareholders, La Caisse (previously CDPQ) and USS (the Transaction).
Ardian is the largest shareholder in Heathrow, having previously completed the acquisition of a 22.6% stake in TopCo on 12th December 2024.

“This additional investment highlights the confidence we have in the future of Heathrow, Europe’s leading airport, and Ardian’s broader commitment to essential infrastructure as an asset class. Since we became the largest shareholder of Heathrow in December 2024, we have worked with our fellow shareholders, the management team and the UK authorities to ensure Heathrow provides the best service possible for passen-gers and airlines.
As the airport continues to serve an increasing number of passengers and global trade, we look forward to working with all stakeholders to deliver sustainable growth for the airport, fostering economic benefits across the country.
This investment is a further sign of our commitment to supporting the UK’s economic growth ambitions, combined with a net zero trajectory.  We are very pleased to have joined the discussion with HM Government at the UK France summit this week.” Mathias Burghardt, Executive Vice President, CEO of Ardian France and Head of Infrastructure, Ardian

“There remains strong and increasing demand for aviation which is underpinning the growth at Heathrow. This includes growing passenger demand, and the importance of cargo where Heathrow is already the UK’s biggest port by value. We are delighted the Government has recognized the importance of Heathrow and set out its ambition to see the airport expand. Our experience shows us Heathrow can grow sustainably, and we are ready to support the airport as it pursues expansion alongside the UK Government.” Juan Angoitia, Co-Head of Infrastructure Europe and Senior Managing Director, Ardian

Through its direct infrastructure investment activities, Ardian has significant experience in owning and operating European airports. In the UK, Ardian was a 49% shareholder of London Luton Airport from 2013 until 2018. During Ardian’s period of ownership, a significant redevelopment of the terminal, transport links and infrastructure was successfully completed in close cooperation with Luton Borough Council. In Italy, Ardian was an indirect shareholder of Milan Linate, Milan Malpensa, Naples and Turin airports alongside their regions and municipalities.

ABOUT ARDIAN

Ardian is a world-leading private investment firm, managing or advising $180bn of assets on behalf of more than 1,850 clients globally. Our broad expertise, spanning Private Equity, Real Assets and Credit, enables us to offer a wide range of investment opportunities and respond flexibly to our clients’ differing needs. Through Ardian Customized Solutions we create bespoke portfolios that allow institutional clients to specify the precise mix of assets they require and to gain access to funds managed by leading third-party sponsors. Private Wealth Solutions offers dedicated services and access solutions for private banks, family offices and private institutional investors worldwide. Ardian’s main shareholding group is its employees and we place great emphasis on developing its people and fostering a collaborative culture based on collective intelligence. Our 1,050+ employees, spread across 20 offices in Europe, the Americas, Asia and Middle East are strongly committed to the principles of Responsible Investment and are determined to make finance a force for good in society. Our goal is to deliver excellent investment performance combined with high ethical standards and social responsibility.
At Ardian we invest all of ourselves in building companies that last.

ardian.com

Media contacts

ARDIAN

Liz Morley

liz.morley@5654.co.uk+44(0)7798683108

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PAI Partners and ADIA complete acquisition of majority stake in Alvest

PAI Partners

PAI Partners, a pre-eminent private equity firm, together with a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (“ADIA”), have completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Alvest, the world leader in airport Ground Support Equipment (“GSE”) full-lifecycle solutions. Ardian retains a minority stake in Alvest, alongside the company’s founders and management team, who are significantly reinvesting as part of the transaction.

With a presence in airports for more than 70 years and headquartered in France, Alvest has grown to be the reference in GSE globally, providing high-performance, innovative and sustainable solutions to the aviation industry. Alvest is a key enabler of a leaner and greener aviation industry by helping airlines, ground handlers and airports reduce their Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and CO2 emissions.

With more than 4,000 employees and 11 industrial factories worldwide, Alvest serves customers in over 170 countries, offering a broad range of GSE products and services including new equipment sales, integrated maintenance, leasing and decarbonisation solutions.

PAI and ADIA’s investment will support Alvest’s next phase of expansion and innovation, leveraging PAI’s deep expertise in the Industrial Goods & Services sector. The investment will focus on enabling Alvest to accelerate the transition to electric GSE and continue growing its product and service offering, including automated or autonomous units, innovative decarbonisation solutions, resilient servicing activities, fleet management systems and maintenance services.

Contacts

PAI Partners
Dania Saidam
+44 20 7297 4678

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority
Garry Nickson
+971 2 415 6085

About PAI Partners

PAI Partners is a pre-eminent private equity firm investing in market-leading companies across the globe. The Firm has more than €27 billion of assets under management and, since 1994, has completed over 100 investments in 12 countries and realised more than €27 billion in proceeds from over 60 exits. PAI has built an outstanding track record through partnering with ambitious management teams where its unique perspective, unrivalled sector experience, and long-term vision enable companies to pursue their full potential – and push beyond. Learn more about the PAI story, the team and their approach at: www.paipartners.com

About ADIA

Established in 1976, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (“ADIA”) is a globally-diversified investment institution that prudently invests funds on behalf of the Government of Abu Dhabi through a strategy focused on long-term value creation. For more information: https://www.adia.ae

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AE Industrial Partners Establishes Aerospace MRO Services Platform with Investment in Air Transport Components

Ae Industrial Partners

Partnership with ATC launches a specialized component MRO platform with repair capabilities across a wide range of commercial, cargo, and military aircraft

BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AE Industrial Partners, LP (“AE Industrial”), a private investment firm specializing in national security, aerospace, and industrial services, today announced the acquisition of Air Transport Components (“ATC” or “the Company”), a provider of aircraft component maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. ATC will be the cornerstone of a new platform offering a full suite of aviation component and accessories repair services for the commercial, cargo, and military markets. This partnership builds upon AE Industrial’s history of successful investments in the aviation aftermarket, which includes Yingling Aviation, AIM MRO and Kellstrom Aerospace, among others. Financial terms of the private transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 1998, ATC specializes in the repair and overhaul of critical aerospace components, possessing strong technical expertise across engine mounts, landing gear, hydraulics, airframe and structures, tracks, flight controls, electrical components, and avionics. With over 100,000 square feet of capacity across three state-of-the-art facilities in Gilbert, Arizona, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Company delivers component repair services for nearly every major U.S. commercial airline. With over 1,000,000 components repaired in the last 25 years, ATC offers a breadth of creative repair solutions that combine its differentiated technical capabilities with enhanced technology and excellence in customer service.

“As the global installed base of aircraft grows and production constraints for new aircraft persist, keeping older aircraft operational longer, while continuing to service active fleets, has become a critical necessity. This is a dynamic that ATC is well positioned to address due to their extensive capabilities, deep technical knowledge, proven responsiveness, and safety record,” said Bryan McElwee, Partner at AE Industrial. “The Company has built an outstanding reputation and serves a deeply entrenched, blue-chip client base. We’re excited to partner with the experienced team at ATC and expand the platform’s portfolio of services, both organically and through acquisitions, establishing a truly market leading MRO platform.”

“We have already developed a very strong relationship with AE Industrial and look forward to working with them closely to scale the platform and build on our strong position,” said Jimmy Newman, CEO of Air Transport Components. “Their deep operating expertise, network of relationships within the aerospace community, and track record of building highly successful businesses make them the ideal partner to help us capitalize on exciting opportunities in the MRO space.”

EY served as financial advisor to AE Industrial on the transaction, while Akerman LLP served as legal advisor.

About AE Industrial Partners:
AE Industrial Partners is a private investment firm with $6.4 billion of assets under management focused on highly specialized markets including national security, aerospace, and industrial services. AE Industrial Partners has completed more than 130 investments in market-leading companies that benefit from its deep industry knowledge, operating experience, and network of relationships across the sectors where the firm invests. With a commitment to driving value creation in partnership with the management teams of its portfolio companies, AE Industrial Partners invests across private equity, venture capital, and aerospace leasing.

About Air Transport Components:
ATC was founded in 1998 and specializes in the repair and overhaul of components and accessories for both commercial and military air transport aircraft. The company handles all repairs, engineering, quality control testing, and refinishing in-house at its state-of-the-art facilities, totaling over 100,000 square feet, located in Gilbert, Ariz., and Tulsa, Okla. ATC Gilbert, ATC Tulsa, and Unicorp Systems are all integral parts of the overall ATC business, working together to provide innovative solutions and exceptional services. Each division plays a unique role in the company’s overall operations, contributing to its growth and success.

Media Contact:
Stanton Public Relations & Marketing
Matt Conroy
mconroy@stantonprm.com
(646) 502-3563

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KKR Leads Financing for Greenbriar’s Acquisition of West Star Aviation

KKR

NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced that credit funds and accounts managed by KKR served as lead investors on a debt financing for Greenbriar Equity Group’s acquisition of West Star Aviation (“West Star” or the “Company”).

Since its founding in 1947, West Star has built a reputation as a premier service provider for business aviation. The Company offers comprehensive MRO capabilities across aircraft manufactured by every major OEM and maintains the largest aircraft on ground (“AOG”) technician network nationally, ensuring prompt and reliable mobile repair services. Supported by a deeply knowledgeable and experienced management team, West Star remains focused on delivering excellent customer service and quality.

“West Star is an exceptional business with comprehensive capabilities and a strong customer value proposition that aligns with Greenbriar’s strategy of partnering with market leading aviation and aerospace businesses poised for growth,” said Noah Blitzer, a Managing Director at Greenbriar. “We are grateful for KKR’s support, which will help enable us, alongside management, to continue building on West Star’s legacy as a premier MRO provider delivering high quality service to its customers.”

“We are pleased to support Greenbriar in its acquisition of West Star Aviation, which we believe is well-positioned to expand its market reach in the resilient and growing aviation MRO space,” said Gene Kolodin, a Managing Director at KKR.

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR’s insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR’s investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR’s website at www.kkr.com. For additional information about Global Atlantic Financial Group, please visit Global Atlantic Financial Group’s website at www.globalatlantic.com.

About Greenbriar

Greenbriar is a middle market private equity firm with 20+ years of experience investing in market-leading services and manufacturing businesses. With $10+ billion of cumulative capital commitments, its investment strategy targets businesses led by experienced management teams capitalizing on strong long-term growth prospects that can benefit from Greenbriar’s deep sectoral expertise, strategic insight, and operating capabilities. For more information, please visit greenbriarequity.com.

About West Star Aviation

With more than 78 years of industry experience, West Star Aviation stands as a leading independent Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) provider. Employing over 3,000 professionals, West Star offers comprehensive services from our strategically located full-service facilities in East Alton, IL; Grand Junction, CO; Chattanooga, TN; Millville, NJ; Perryville, MO; and Statesville, NC, as well as multiple satellite locations. The company’s extensive capabilities encompass airframe maintenance, paint, interior, and avionics services, supported by the largest Aircraft On Ground (AOG) technician network in the country, ensuring prompt and reliable mobile repair services nationwide.

Julia Kosygina or Lauren McCranie | Media@kkr.com

Source: KKR

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Boeing to Sell Portions of Digital Aviation Solutions to Thoma Bravo for $10.55 Billion

Thomabravo

Agreement includes principles for data sharing and future collaborations to ensure continuity of operations under Thoma Bravo’s ownership

– Sale strengthens Boeing’s capital structure and allows company to focus on core business, including key continued technical operations

ARLINGTON, Va.—Boeing [NYSE:BA] has entered into a definitive agreement to sell portions of its Digital Aviation Solutions business, including its Jeppesen, ForeFlight, AerData and OzRunways assets, to Thoma Bravo, a leading software investment firm. This all-cash transaction is valued at$10.55 billion.

Boeing will retain core digital capabilities that harness both aircraft and fleet-specific data to provide commercial and defense customers with fleet maintenance, diagnostics and repair services. This digital expertise will continue to provide predictive and prognostic maintenance insights.

“This transaction is an important component of our strategy to focus on core businesses, supplement the balance sheet and prioritize the investment grade credit rating,” said Kelly Ortberg, Boeing president and chief executive officer.

“This enables all parts of the digital portfolio to focus on their strengths,” said Chris Raymond, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Global Services. “Our commitment to meeting our customers’ needs is unwavering as we move forward with our core products and services to support their fleets.”

“We are proud to be investing in such an important technology platform in the broader aerospace and defense industry,” said Holden Spaht, a Managing Partner at Thoma Bravo. “With a heritage dating back to the 1930s, Jeppesen has been at the forefront of technological innovation for nearly a century. We are excited to build on this track record and power its next phase of growth.”

“The business has been through an impressive growth transformation in recent years and has strong momentum,” said Scott Crabill, a Managing Partner at Thoma Bravo. “Thoma Bravo has a long track record of backing leading technology companies in partnership with existing management. We look forward to supporting the company’s standalone growth objectives through strategic investments, operational best practices and a shared commitment to innovation and long-term value creation.”

Approximately 3,900 employees around the globe work in Boeing’s Digital Aviation Solutions organization, which includes elements of the business remaining within Boeing and those included in the sale. Boeing is working with Thoma Bravo to help ensure as seamless of a transition as possible for employees while continuing to meet the needs of customers in accordance with all obligations.

The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2025 and is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.

Citi is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Boeing, and Mayer Brown LLP is acting as outside counsel. Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as legal counsel to Thoma Bravo.

About Boeing
A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.

About Thoma Bravo
Thoma Bravo is one of the largest software-focused investors in the world, with over US$179 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2024. Through its private equity, growth equity and credit strategies, the firm invests in growth-oriented, innovative companies operating in the software and technology sectors. Leveraging Thoma Bravo’s deep sector knowledge and strategic and operational expertise, the firm collaborates with its portfolio companies to implement operating best practices and drive growth initiatives. Over the past 20+ years, the firm has acquired or invested in approximately 520 companies representing approximately US$275 billion in enterprise value (including control and non-control investments). The firm has offices in Chicago, Dallas, London, Miami, New York and San Francisco. For more information, visit Thoma Bravo’s website at thomabravo.com.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “intends,” “projects,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “targets,” “anticipates,” and other similar words or expressions, or the negative thereof, generally can be used to help identify these forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include statements relating to the anticipated benefits of the transaction, future collaborations between the parties, and the timetable for completing the transaction, as well as any other statement that does not directly relate to any historical or current fact. Forward-looking statements are based on expectations and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable when made, but that may not prove to be accurate. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from these forward-looking statements. Among these factors are risks related to general conditions in the economy and our industry, including those due to regulatory changes, the ability of the parties to consummate the transaction, and other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time in Boeing’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K.

Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and we assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.

Read the release on the PR Newswire website here.

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Stonepeak Completes Acquisition of ATSG

Stonepeak

WILMINGTON, Ohio — April 11, 2025 – Air Transport Services Group, Inc. (“ATSG”), a global leader in medium widebody freighter aircraft leasing, air transport operations, and support services, today announced the completion of its acquisition by Stonepeak, a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets, in an all-cash transaction with an enterprise valuation of approximately $3.1 billion.

“Today marks an important milestone in ATSG’s journey,” said Mike Berger, Chief Executive Officer of ATSG. “As a private company – and with Stonepeak’s support, as a leading investor in transportation, logistics, and asset leasing businesses – we are well-positioned to enhance our capabilities and sustain ATSG’s long term growth. I look forward to focusing on delivering value for our employees, customers, partners, communities, and other stakeholders. Our employees continue to demonstrate they are the best in the business across all ATSG companies. That, very simply, is what separates us from the rest.”

“ATSG has proven itself to be a leader in global aircraft leasing, with significant scale, strong customer relationships, and an incredibly talented team across all of its businesses,” said James Wyper, Senior Managing Director, Head of Transportation & Logistics, and Head of U.S. Private Equity at Stonepeak. “We look forward to partnering with Mike and the rest of the team to support ATSG in its next chapter as a private company.”

The transaction was announced on November 4, 2024, and received approval of ATSG’s stockholders on February 10, 2025. In accordance with the definitive merger agreement, holders of ATSG’s common shares will receive $22.50 per share in cash. With the completion of the acquisition, ATSG’s common shares have ceased trading and will no longer be listed on NASDAQ.

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to ATSG. Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, Vorys, Sater, Seymour & Pease LLP and Silverberg Goldman LLP acted as legal counsel to ATSG. Evercore acted as financial advisor to Stonepeak. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP and Hogan Lovells US LLP acted as legal counsel to Stonepeak.

About Air Transport Services Group

Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) is a premier provider of aircraft leasing and cargo and passenger air transportation solutions for both domestic and international air carriers, as well as companies seeking outsourced airlift services. ATSG is the global leader in freighter aircraft leasing with a fleet that includes Boeing 767, Airbus A321, and Airbus A330 converted freighters. ATSG’s unique Lease+Plus aircraft leasing opportunity draws upon a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries including three airlines holding separate and distinct U.S. FAA Part 121 Air Carrier certificates to provide air cargo lift, and passenger ACMI and charter services. Complementary services from ATSG’s other subsidiaries allow the integration of aircraft maintenance, airport ground services, and material handling equipment engineering and service. ATSG subsidiaries comprise ABX Air, Inc.; Airborne Global Solutions, Inc.; Airborne Maintenance and Engineering Services, Inc., including its subsidiary, Pemco World Air Services, Inc.; Air Transport International, Inc.; Cargo Aircraft Management, Inc.; LGSTX Services, Inc.; and Omni Air International, LLC. For further details, please visit www.atsginc.com.

About Stonepeak

Stonepeak is a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets with approximately $72 billion of assets under management. Through its investment in defensive, hard-asset businesses globally, Stonepeak aims to create value for its investors and portfolio companies, with a focus on downside protection and strong risk-adjusted returns. Stonepeak, as sponsor of private equity and credit investment vehicles, provides capital, operational support, and committed partnership to grow investments in its target sectors, which include digital infrastructure, energy and energy transition, transport and logistics, and real estate. Stonepeak is headquartered in New York with offices in Houston, Washington, D.C., London, Hong Kong, Seoul, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, and Abu Dhabi. For more information, please visit www.stonepeak.com.

Contact:

ATSG

Quint O. Turner
Chief Financial Officer
Air Transport Services Group, Inc.
(937) 366-2303

Stonepeak

Kate Beers / Maya Brounstein
Corporate Communications
corporatecomms@stonepeak.com
(212) 907-5100

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Blackstone Infrastructure to Acquire Minority Stake in AGS Airports and Invest Behind the Growth of the United Kingdom

Blackstone

NEW YORK – March 28, 2025 – Blackstone (NYSE: BX) announced today that Blackstone’s infrastructure strategy for individual investors has agreed to acquire a minority stake of 22% in AGS Airports (“AGS”), a platform of high-quality freehold airports providing access to key UK markets, from AviAlliance for £235 million.

Blackstone’s investment, together with AviAlliance and PSP Investments, is intended to support the continued growth of the travel and tourism industries across the United Kingdom.

AviAlliance, one of the world’s leading airport investors and operators, will remain the majority shareholder in AGS with a 78% stake.

AGS handles over eleven million passengers annually and is the owner and operator of three critical UK airports: Glasgow and Aberdeen in Scotland and Southampton in England.

Commenting on the announcement, Greg Blank, Chief Executive Officer of Blackstone Infrastructure Strategies, said, “Transportation remains a key thematic focus area for Blackstone, given continued strong global growth in leisure travel. AGS has access to one of the most diversified airline mixes of any major UK airport, and the company’s recent capital improvements aimed at accommodating large aircraft pave the way for new routes and higher traffic growth. We look forward to partnering with AGS to support this important growth in the United Kingdom.”

Sandiren Curthan, Managing Director and Global Head of Infrastructure Investments, PSP Investments, said: “We are pleased to bring Blackstone as a minority shareholder in AGS. Both PSP and Blackstone are like-minded investors with long-term patient capital to support the development of AGS, which will benefit from the operational expertise of AviAlliance.”

Gerhard Schroeder, Managing Director of AviAlliance, said: “We look forward to developing a constructive and long-term partnership with Blackstone for the benefit of AGS, its management and employees, as well as all other stakeholders at the three airports. Together, we will further strengthen the position of AGS in both Scotland and the wider United Kingdom.”

Blackstone Infrastructure has a strong track record of investing in transportation infrastructure, including through Mundys, the world’s largest toll road platform and manager of airports Roma Fiumicino and Ciampino, Signature Aviation, the world’s largest network of private aviation terminals, and ASPI, Europe’s largest toll road platform.

About Blackstone Infrastructure
Blackstone Infrastructure is an active investor across energy, transportation, digital infrastructure and water and waste infrastructure sectors. We seek to apply a long-term buy-and-hold strategy to large-scale infrastructure assets with a focus on delivering stable, long-term capital appreciation together with a predictable annual cash flow yield. Our approach to infrastructure investing is one that focuses on responsible stewardship and stakeholder engagement to create value for our investors and the communities we serve.

Blackstone Media Contact
Matt Thomas
Matthew.Thomas@blackstone.com
+44 20 7451 4480

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